Runner’s knee—also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS)—is one of the most common causes of anterior knee pain in active individuals. Despite the name, it doesn’t just affect runners. Anyone who participates in repetitive lower-body activity, including cyclists, walkers, hikers, and gym-goers, can develop this condition.

The pain typically stems from increased stress between the kneecap (patella) and the femur, often due to poor alignment, overload, or muscular imbalances.

Common Symptoms

  • Dull, aching pain at the front or around the kneecap
  • Pain that worsens with stairs, squatting, running, or prolonged sitting (a.k.a. “theater sign”)
  • Clicking or grinding sensation during movement
  • Tenderness around the kneecap

Why Does Runner’s Knee Happen?

At Bayshore Podiatry Center, we use the Tissue Stress Model to treat knee pain based on the load that tissue is experiencing—not just the structure that hurts.

Runner’s knee typically results from poor load tolerance and altered biomechanics that cause the patella to track improperly or place excessive stress on the joint. Contributing factors include:

  • Weak hip or quadriceps muscles
  • Tight calves or hamstrings
  • Overpronation or poor foot alignment
  • Worn-out or improper footwear
  • Sudden increases in activity or hill running

Our Evaluation Approach

Your evaluation begins with a full functional and biomechanical assessment, including:

  • Gait analysis and foot posture evaluation
  • Hip, knee, and ankle strength and mobility testing
  • Review of training volume, footwear, and aggravating activities

How We Treat Runner’s Knee in Tampa

Our approach targets both tissue stress reduction and long-term strength and mobility restoration. Treatment plans often include:

✅ Load Management:

  • Activity modification to reduce joint stress
  • Cross-training guidance to maintain fitness without aggravating symptoms

✅ Biomechanical Optimization:

  • Gait and form analysis for runners and walkers
  • Orthotic intervention (if foot mechanics are contributing to knee overload)
  • Footwear updates and education

✅ Strength & Mobility Rehab:

  • Progressive hip and quad strengthening (especially glute medius)
  • Calf, hamstring, and IT band mobility work
  • Single-leg functional movement retraining

✅ Advanced Therapy Options:

  • MLS laser therapy to reduce joint irritation
  • Shockwave therapy for persistent cases with tendinous involvement

✅ Return to Sport Guidance:

  • Graduated reintroduction to running, stairs, or gym workouts
  • Movement screening to prevent recurrence

When to Seek Help

If your knee pain lingers longer than 1–2 weeks, worsens with activity, or limits your ability to exercise, it’s time for a professional evaluation. Early intervention prevents chronic stress and compensatory issues elsewhere in the body.

Ready to Run Strong Again?

At Bayshore Podiatry Center, we combine biomechanics, rehabilitation, and precision offloading to treat the root cause of runner’s knee—not just the symptoms. Whether you're an athlete or an active professional, we’ll help you move without pain.

👉 Experiencing knee pain that won’t go away? Book an appointment today and let’s create a treatment plan built around your goals.

Bayshore Podiatry Center — Tampa’s Trusted Experts in Lower Limb Performance & Recovery